Native American studies has as its focus the prehistory, history, contemporary situation, and way of life of Native Americans (American Indians). For more than 95 percent of the time humans have lived in the Americas, the only people here have been Native Americans. To understand the history and cultures of the Americas, one must start with Native Americans. Far from disappearing either physically or culturally, Native Americans today are increasing in numbers and represent hundreds of vibrant and unique ways of life. To learn about Native Americans is to explore yet another avenue of what it means to be human.

The commonwealth of Kentucky is rich in Native American culture. NKU is located in the heart of the prehistoric Ohio Valley mound-builder cultures of Adena, Hopewell, and Fort Ancient, on lands claimed by both the historic Shawnee and Cherokee. The university is only about 50 miles from the soon-to-be-built Kentucky Center for Native American Arts and Culture and is recognized by the Kentucky Native American Heritage Commission. NKU’s Native American studies program is the only such program in Kentucky. There are two Native American student organizations at NKU: First Nations Student Organization and Kiksuya. Native American studies minors are encouraged to participate in both. Each year NKU anthropology faculty present the Outstanding Student in Native American Studies Award. NKU provides students with opportunities to do Native American studies outside the classroom and develop résumé-worthy skills important in the job quest. Through Kiksuya, every spring NKU students can go to a reservation in the Dakotas. Every summer students also have the opportunity to participate in an archaeological dig at a prehistoric Native American village site in Northern Kentucky. Students also have opportunities to work on museum exhibits.